Established on December 16, 1991, by late Deyda Hydara, Pap Saine and late Baboucarr Gaye, who later resigned from the paper in April 1992 to launch his own newspaper and Radio, the Paper also marks the 19th anniversary when Deyda Hydara, a renowned journalist and one of the fierce critique of former president Jammeh’s poor governance and rights violation, was assassinated.
Thirty two years on, the paper continues to dominate both on newsstands and online thanks to its proactive stance on issues affecting press freedom, right violations and promoting divergent views.
This has enabled it to expand its readership and by extension winning several international awards.
The paper is not only playing a key role in the socio-economic aspect of the country by promoting democracy, justice, and good governance as it continues to serve as a voice for the voiceless, but it also serves as a learning centre for quite a number of young and aspiring journalists.
Another important achievement is the two languages – the English and French the Paper is published in, making it a leader in the country’s market in both readership and content.
Nevertheless, as we commemorate these two important events, it is important we reflect on not only how far we’ve come as an institution in terms of promoting good democratic governance and serving as a platform for divergent views, but also to reflect on the lives and times of veteran Gambian journalist, Deyda Hydara.
Recently, a court in Germany has sentenced a Gambian man, Bai Lowe to life in prison for his role in a paramilitary unit that killed opponents of former ruler Yahya Jammeh recently. This is a welcome development and a perfect reminder that all those who had a hand in this gruesome murder of a veteran Gambia journalist, will have their day in court someday.
We therefore hope The Gambia government would take cue so as to ensure all those who participated in the brutal killing of veteran Gambian journalist are brought to book.
This will not heal our old wounds, but will make sure there is no room for right violations in the country.
To this end, we appeal to the government to arrest all involved in the killing of Deyda including ex-president Yahya Jammeh to face justice.
In commemorating these two important events, we say a big thanks to our staff, readers and advertisers for their support to the Paper. This has enabled it contribute positively towards the development of the country's media landscape.
On this anniversary celebration, we thank all our vast advisers, subscribers and partners for their patronage.
In delivering our service as the most reliable, factual and authoritative news content provider in the country, the journey is just starting.